Stratford Recreation Department
TOTS, PRE SCHOOL, TEEN & YOUTH PROGRAMS
All program registrations take place at the Recreation Office at Short Beach Park unless noted in the description. All Programs Subject To Change. Non-residents may take particular classes for an additional $5 fee.
Updated January 2, 2012
TODDLER/PRESCHOOL PROGRAMS
If school is cancelled, preschool, and toddler classes are cancelled. If school is delayed, morning classes are cancelled but classes beginning at noon or later will take place. If schools have early dismissal, am classes will be held but classes at noon or later will be cancelled.
This is an 8-week open play in a gym program for toddlers and preschoolers ages 1-4, and their caregivers on Thursday or Friday. The gym will be open for them to explore, play ball games, climb, run, jump and make new friends. A caregiver must remain with the child. A Recreation Department certified staff member will be the facilitator. Each class will end with a brief circle time and parachute play. Registration is for one time slot. Winter session is January 26 – March 22 with 2 time frames: 9:00-10:00am or 10:15-11:15am for the Thursday Class and January 27 - March 23 for the Friday Class at the Birdseye Complex. Friday’s class will be 9:30-10:30am. Registration is January 3-20. Spring session is April 19 – June 7, with only Thursday classes. Registration is March 5-April 13. Fee is $45 per session.
Play School 419360 Section 80, 82
A playgroup for children ages 2-3 and their caregivers designed in a preschool setting. Children will explore through centers, do craft projects, cooking projects, music time, participate in large motor skill activities, circle time, stories and other various activities. Class is for 8 sessions held at the South End Community Center on Wednesday 9:30-10:30am. The cost is $65. Registration is January 3-January 20. Classes begin January 25. Second session begins April 18 with registration March 26 – April 13.
A class for ages 3-5 that teaches basic soccer skills, such as dribbling, goalkeeping, passing, running and agility through various drills and games. This is a great physical fitness activity. Held on Wednesdays from 5:00-5:45pm at the Birdseye Complex. The cost is $45 for 8 classes. Class begins January 25 with registration January 3-January 20. Spring session begins April 18 with registration March 26-April 13.
Children ages 3-5 will learn how to play baseball/softball in a fun, developmental environment. This program teaches children a variety of skills including: catching, throwing, batting, and running/agility. Held on Wednesdays from 4:00-4:45pm at the Birdseye Complex. The cost is $45 for 8 sessions. Class begins January 25 with registration January 3-20.
A basic tumbling and cheer class for ages 4-6 held at the Birdseye Complex on Wednesday nights from 4:00-4:45pm. This program emphasizes fitness and fun in a non-competitive environment. Children will learn tumbling skills, cheers and dance steps. Class begins April 18 with registration March 26-April 13.
The cost is $45 for 8 weeks.
Preschool Sport Camps 113080 Sections 11 – 17
Preschoolers ages 3-5 will participate in the “Sport of the Week” doing drills, games, circle time with singing, craft, water play, parachute and snack time. Parents supply the snack. Camp will be Monday-Friday from 9-11:30am at Longbrook Park, unless noted. Rain location Flood School gym or Birdseye Gym.
Soccer camp June 25-June 29
Cheerleading/Tumbling July 9-13
Tennis/Volleyball July 16-20 at Short Beach Tennis Courts
T – Ball July 23-27
Dance July 30-August 3 - at Flood Middle School
Soccer August 6-10
T-Ball August 13-17 at Short Beach Softball Fields
Registration is March 5-June 30 or until filled. The fee is $47 for each week. Space is limited.
Budding Artists is art for children ages 2-4 with a caregiver. The children will hear a story, then by using their senses, will create their own masterpieces, which will make connections between art and the book. Through painting, drawing, sculpting and different art materials they will be creating an expression of themselves. This class requires caregiver participation. Fee is $55 for 8 weeks. Class is held at the South End Community Center on Mondays from 10:00-10:45am, beginning January 23-March 19 with registration January 3 - 20. Spring session will begin April 23 with registration April 4-22. No class during school vacations.
Emergent Artists is an art class for children ages 4-6. The children will hear a story and will practice a new art skill taken from the story. The children will investigate and become art detectives, observing how the illustrator created the images in the book. The children will recreate and design their own artwork based on the illustrator’s style. Fee is $55 for 8 weeks. Class is held at the Birdseye Complex on Thursdays from 4:00-4:45pm beginning April 26 for a spring session.
Joggin Noggin Lego Engineering program will offer a special day Friday February 24 at the Birdseye Complex from 9-12pm for preschool and kindergarten age children and their parent for a fun day of building and exploring science. Cost is $55. Registration is January 23-February 10.
NEW: Saturday Preschool Lego Class 219380 Section 03
This class is held at Flood from 10—11am and is designed for children in preschool and their parent for five weeks. Come explore you and your child’s creative magic! Class begins January 14. Registration is January 3-10. The cost is $75
Winter Vacation Basketball Camp 312600 Section 11
There will be Girls Basketball Camp on February 21, 22 & 23 at the Flood Middle School for grades 1–6 from 9:00am–12:00pm. Groups will be divided into grades 1 – 3 and grades 4 – 6. Registration is January 9 – February 10 and space is limited. Fee is $55. There will be swimming after camp each day if pool is available.
Winter Vacation Indoor Tennis Camp NEW 212360 Section 43
There will be a tennis camp on February 21, 22 and 23 at Birdseye Complex. This is for ages 6 and older. The time is 9-12pm and the cost is $120. Registration is January 9 - February 10.
School Vacation Open Swims - February 21-23 & April 10-12
During these weeks the Flood Pool will be open from 1-3 for open swims on Tuesday-Thursday. The cost is $1.00 for children and $2.00 for adults per swim.
Winter Vacation Birdseye Rec Center Schedule: February 21-24 Section 18
Birdseye Complex will be open Tuesday through Friday from 3-5 pm for middle school youth and Wednesday and Thursday nights from 7:00-9pm for high school youth.
April Vacation Tennis Sport Camp NEW 413110 Section 43, 44
During the April 9-13 school vacation a camp will be held at the Birdseye Complex. This camp will be from 9:30am–12:30pm. Fee is $169. Registration is March 12-April 5.
Noggin Joggin Science Enrichment Program Camp NEW 219380 Sections 58-61
This is a science enrichment program for children in grades 1-8. Children will learn the basics of simple machines, building concepts Lego vocabulary and more. Each day will feature a different day of magical science adventures. The vacation camp is held at the Birdseye Complex from 9-12 pm. The cost is $55 per day. Registration is January 17 - February 10.
Winter Vacation Camp Days:
February 21 Engineering
February 22 Physics
February 23 Messy,Messy.Messy Science
February 24 Just For Me Engineering and Science for preschool and kindergarten children with parent.
Youth and Teen Programs
Art and the Artists Programs 419360 Sections 90,91,92
Advanced Artists is an art program for children ages 7-10. They will look at the elements and design of award-winning books. They will be introduced to a variety of vocabulary to help learn the basic concepts of art. Artwork will be based on a combination of artistic elements to create their own composition. Fee is $55 for 8 weeks. Class is held at the Birdseye Complex on Thursdays from 5:00-5:45pm. Spring session only beginning April 26 with registration April 4-22.
After School Programs: 312800 Sections 30 - 35
The program is from 3:30–4:30pm Monday – Thursday through March 29. Children will have the opportunity to do homework, as well as activities such as games, crafts and special events. Children will meet in the gymnasium. Grades 5-6 will meet on Monday and Wednesday and Grades 3 – 4 will meet on Tuesday and Thursday. There is no after school program when school is closed due to weather or on scheduled half days. Register online at www.townofstratford.com, or at the Recreation Office located at Short Beach Park. This is a free program and children must be registered prior to attending. They are also free to leave on their own at anytime from 3:00-4:30pm once they sign out.
Mad Science – Grades 1– 4 219380 Section 12, 13, 31, 32, 41
Mad Science is a four week program. Cost is $65. Registration begins January 3 and ends two weeks before the program begins.
Program Sites:
Second Hill Lane: Sensational Science Part Two. Class is Wednesday 3:30-4:30 for grades 1-4. Dates are: Feb. 15, 29, March 7 and March 14.
Lordship School: Sensational Science Part One. This class is held on Tuesday from 3:30-4:30 for grades 1-4. Dates are: March 6, 13, 20, and 27.
Eli Whitney School: Sensational Science Part One. All experiments are different than the Fall Session. Class is held on Mondays from 3:30-4:30 for grades 1-4. Dates are: April 2, 16, 23, 30.
Wilcoxson School: Sensational Science Part Two. Class is held on Wednesday and is for grades 1-4 from 3:30-4:40. Class dates are: April 4, 18, 25,and May 2.
Summer Mad Science Classes 219380
Mad Science will offer programs for school age children in the summer. The first session will be July 2,3,5,6 a four day program. It will be held at the Birdseye Complex. The topic is Become an INVENTOR. Design and create your own invention! The time is 9am - 12pm. The fee is $145. This is for grades 1-5. Registration begins March 5-June 10.
Mad Science 321 Blast Off Camp will be July 23-July 27 at Flood Middle School. This is a five day program held at Flood Middle School from 9am-12pm. Cost is $175. This is for grades 1-5. Explore space. Learn about the stars, forces of flight and make a rocket ship. Registration begins March 5-July 1.
Science Enrichment Program: Motorized Mechanisms 219380 Sections 13, 14, 2, 42
Noggin Joggin is a science enrichment engineering program using legos. In this session students will explore building techniques, structures, balance forces and friction. Students will be presented with challenges they will need to solve using acquired and learned information about building and engineering. Worksheets and activities will be pro vided to extend learning at home if desired, not required. No pre-requisites needed. Grades 3-5 and 6-8. Cost is $75 for 5 weeks. Registration starts January 3 to two weeks before first class. Class schedule is as follows:
NEW: Preschool Class Saturday at Flood from 10-11am. The class is for Pre K and Kindergarten students with their parents. Parent and child will explore the world of science. Registration is January 3-12. Class will be for five weeks beginning January 14 with the ending date of February 11.
Engineering 3: Motorized Machines. Class is open to all levels. Schedule is as follows:
Monday at Birdseye Complex from 4:15-5:15pm on January 9, 23, 30, February 6, 13
Tuesday at Eli Whitney from 3:30-4:30pm on January 10, 17, 24, 31 and February 7.
Saturday at Flood from 11:15-12:15 for grades 3-5 and 12:30-1:30 for grades 6-8. Class meets
January 14,21,28 and February 4,11.
Engineering 4 Motorized Machines. Class is open to all levels. Schedule is as follows:
Monday at Birdseye Complex from 4:15-5:15pm on February 27, March 5,12,19, and 26.
Tuesday at Eli Whitney from 3:30-4:30pm on February 28, March 6, 13, 20 and 27.
Saturday at Flood from 11:15-12:15 for grades 3-5 and 12:30-1:30 for grades 6-8. Class meets on March 3, 10, 17, 24 and 31.
Engineering 5 Motorized Machines. Class is open to all levels. Schedule is as follows:
Monday at Birdseye Complex from 4:15-5:15pm on April 16, 23, 30, and May 7, 14.
Tuesday at Eli Whitney from 3:30-4:30pm on April 17, 24, and May 1, 8, 15.
Engineering 6 Messy Messy Science for all ages K-8
Saturday at Flood from 11-12 pm on April 21,28, May 5, 12, 19
Engineering 7 Playing around with Physic. Class is open to K-8.
Saturday at Flood from 11-12pm on June 2, 9, 16, 23, and 30.
Shooting Stars - Explorer Division for girls in grades K-2 312600- Section 08,09
Girls will work together to learn the skills of basketball thru various drills. Instructor will show participants what to do to learn the game. Program will be on Saturday mornings from 9:00-10:00 am at Birdseye Complex from Jan 28-March 3. No class during school vacation. Fee is $35, which includes a t-shirt. Registration is Jan 3-Jan 24. Spring Session runs from March 31- May 5. Space is limited.
Theater and Movement Workshop NEW 214660 Section 11,12
The Theatre Workshop is designed to encourage the development of theatre skills, such as acting, dancing, scripts, character building and the enjoyment of performing arts, in young performers. The workshops offer an opportunity for youngsters to participate in a session ending mini “show”. Classes are on Tuesdays for youth in grades 1-3 from 3:45-4:45 pm and grades 4-6 from 4:00-5:00 pm at the Birdseye Complex. The new programs will begin March 6 for 8 classes for a fee of $45 per child. Registration is January 30-March 1.
Dance Classes 214170 Section 80,81,82,83,84,85
The Recreation Department will offer dance classes on Tuesday afternoons at the Baldwin Center. Our dance classes build basic proper dance foundations and helps youth discover how to dance and have fun in a noncompetitive environment. The winter session will begin on Tuesday, January 24–March 20. No class during school vacations. Class times are as follows:
4:00-4:45 3-6 yrs. old (Tap & Ballet)
5:00-5:45 6-11 yrs old HipHop/Jazz
6:00-6:45 12-adult (Hip – Hop)
Classes will be for 8 weeks and the fee is $65. Registration is January 3 – January 22. The spring session will begin April 17-June 7 with the same times and locations. Registration is April 2-13.
Summer Dance Program 214170 Section 13
Dance classes will be offered during the summer at the Baldwin Center. The class is for ages 3-6 and will feature jazz, hip hop and ballet. Class will be held from 4:00-4:45pm. Session runs on Tuesdays from July 10-August 7. Registration is from June 7-July 9. Cost is $50 for 6 weeks.
Step My Step Dance/Drill Team 514800 Section 05
This coed program is for youth 12–17 years of age. Practice will be two days a week at the Birdseye Complex from 4-6pm. Program will begin January 23 on Monday and Thursdays. Registration is required. The program fee is $10 for the winter/spring session. The session ends May 4. Registration is at the Recreation Office January 3-20.
Drills and Skills I 514760 Section 02
This is a six-week basketball and life skills program for boys and girls in grades 2–5 and 6–8. Participants will learn hands-on basketball drills and age-appropriate life skills on topics related to wellness and fitness, communication, setting goals, making decisions, solving problems, responsibility and leadership. Community leaders and special presenters will also be invited as speakers on various program topics. This program will be offered on Tuesdays, March 6 from 6:00–7:00pm at the Birdseye Gymnasium.
Registration is January 30– February 28. Fee is $30 for the 6-week program
Drills and Skills II 514760 Section 03
This intermediate level basketball and life skills program for boys and girls in grades 2-5 and 6-8 is for those youth who have completed Drills and Skills I and are ready to move on to the next level of basketball instruction. This program will offer more intense drills and some games for participants applying the life skills learned in Drills I to the game of basketball. This program will be offered on Wednesdays, March 7 from 6:00–7:15pm at the Birdseye Gymnasium. Registration is through January 30-February 28. Fee is $35 for the six-week program.
Going Fishing 419630 Section 40
The Stratford Recreation Department and the Connecticut Department of Environmental Protection Bureau of Fisheries will sponsor a Fishing Course prior to Opening Day of the fishing season. The program will consist of basic instruction on fishing and is open to anyone interested in fishing. There will two classes: Friday February 17 from 6:30-8:30pm at the Birdseye Complex with registration January 23-February 10 and April 27 from 6:30-8:00pm at the Birdseye Complex with registration April 1–17. Cost is $1 plus a can of food.
Fishing Derby 419630 Section 44
The Stratford Recreation Department will have a Fishing Derby on Saturday May 5 at 6:30-8:30 am at Brewster Pond, located at Longbrook Park. Fee is $5 and registration is required to participate. Registration will be April 16–May 3.
Youth Karate 542580 Section 01-06, 41-44, 81-83, 85, 90
Karate Class will be on Monday, Wednesday and Friday nights at Franklin School, as well as on Saturdays at Flood Aux Gym January 4–March 3. Registration is through January 4. Second session will begin March 5–May 5 with registration Feb.21-March 5. Third session will be May 7–June 30 (8 weeks) will be at Flood gym. Registration is April 23-May 7. For information and registration visit www.superiorkarate.net. Non-residents add $5. Signup for two consecutive 8-wk sessions and receive $10 off.
Classes are:
Little Ninjas (ages 4-6)
Beginner: Monday and Wednesday 5:15–5:45pm
Advanced: Monday and Wednesday 5:45-6:15pm and Friday 6:00-6:30 pm
Saturday 10-10:30am
Fee is $68 for one class per week; $118 for two classes per week.
Beginner Karate Class (ages 7-adult)
Monday and Wednesday and Fridays is 6:30–7:20pm and Saturday mornings 10:40–11:30 am
Fee is $84 for one class per week; $148 for two classes per week; $168 for three classes per week
Advanced Karate Class (ages 7-adult)
Monday and Wednesday and Friday 7:30–8:20pm and Saturdays 10:40–11:30am
Black Belt Class
Monday from 8:30-9:00 pm
Black Belt Club (Advanced Training for Green-Black Belts)
2 Saturday per month 11:40am-1:10 pm
Fee is $45 for 2-month session, $50 non-residents. Fee is $85 for 4-month session, $90 non-residents
Family Discounts for 2 times per week, 8-week session classes – 2nd family member and up $40 off
Summer Karate Classes 542580 Section 51-56 & 61-66
Classes are at Flood, July 2 – July 25 (4 weeks on Monday and Wednesday) and July 30 – August 15 (3 weeks) at Birdseye Complex. For ninjas the fee for 4 weeks is $34 for once per week and $59 for twice per week. For beg/adv adult the fee is $42 for once per week and $74 for twice per week. For ninjas 3 weeks for once per week is $26 and twice per week is $45. For beg/adv adult the fee is for once per week is $32 and twice per week is $56.
Little Ninjas Beginner (ages 4-6)
Monday and Wednesday 5:15-5:45 pm
Little Ninjas Advanced (age 4-6)
Monday and Wednesday 5:45-6:15 pm
Beginner Class (ages 7-adult)
Monday and Wednesday 6:30-7:20pm
Advanced Class (ages 7-adult)
Mondays and Wednesdays 7:30-8:20pm
Black Belt Class
Mondays 8:30-9:00 pm
Family Discounts for 2 times per week, 4-week session classes – 2nd family member and up $20 off and for 3-week session classes - 2nd family member and up $15 off
Lessons will be held on Tuesday at Chapel School starting January 17 for 5 weeks. Pee Wee Class for ages 4-5 is 3:25-3:55pm and the fee is $55. Class for ages 6-9 is from 3:55-4:55pm and class for ages 10-13 is from 4:55-5:55pm with a fee of $95. Weather related make-up is March 6.
Session II will be March 13–April 24 at Chapel with registration February 1–24. Weather related make-up is May 1.
Youth Chess Workshop 219300 Section 31
This program is open to youth in grades K-8 on Thursdays January 26–March 22 at Birdseye Municipal Complex from 6:30-7:30pm. During the 8-week program, the students will learn chess, and matches will be arranged. Parent volunteers are needed. Registration is January 3-21 Fee is $35.
Youth Chess Club 219300 Section 32
Know chess? Interested in going to tournaments and making new friends. Join us at Birdseye Complex on Thursday nights from 7:30-9:00 pm beginning January 26-March 22. This program does not include instruction. Matches will be set up and the club will decide what tournaments they want to enter. The Club dues are $10, which does not include tournament fees. Registration is January 3-21.
Hot Shot Finals Basketball Contest 312610 Section 02-06
The Recreation Department, in cooperation with the Connecticut Recreation and Parks Association, will sponsor the Hot Shot Finals Contest for boys and girls ages 9-15. The winners will advance to the County Finals and then State levels of competition. Each player will have one minute to shoot from the “hotspots” placed on the basketball court. Starting at half court, the players dribble into shooting range and shoot from the designated spots. The total of three one-minute rounds is added together. The contest challenges a player’s speed, shooting, dribbling and rebounding ability. The divisions are based on each child’s age before December 31, 2011. A birth certificate will be required in order to participate. There is no fee for this event, but participants must be registered. The event will take place on Wednesday January 4 from 6-8pm at Flood Middle School and Friday January 6, 2012 at Birdseye Complex from 6-8pm.
TEEN PROGRAMS
Excerpt from 1992 Juvenile Justice & Delinquency Prevention Act: The incidence of juvenile delinquency can be reduced through public recreation programs and activities designed to provide youth with social skills, enhance self-esteem and encourage the constructive use of discretionary time.
January Sports/Café for Teens
In January a sports night for teens will be held at the Birdseye Complex on Saturday January 28, from 7-9:30pm. Activities will include: open mike, poetry readings or singing, with the gym open for basketball and volleyball, and the gamer room for a movie. The event is open to all Stratford Teens. Pre-registration is required. The cost will be one can of food to donate to local food pantries.
Battle of the Bands will be held on Saturday April 28 from 7-10 pm. Bands may register for the contest beginning January 3 - March 16. Each band will be required to sell tickets to the event. The band that sells the most tickets will select the spot they wish to perform. Each band will have twenty-minute slots to perform depending on the number of entries. This competition will be held at Stratford High School. Come and cheer your favorite band. Tickets are sold ahead of time, $5 per ticket. Limited sales at the door and great door prizes and awards.
Learn to dance hip-hop in a simple and effective way. Our friendly instructor breaks down steps so students can learn the core dance repertoire through drills. Come alone or with friends and learn to dance, exercise and have fun. Class is held at the Baldwin Center from 6:00-6:45pm and the cost is $65 for 8 week session. Winter session begins January 24 with registration January 3-20. Spring session begins April 17 with registration April 2-13.
Wooster Recreation Center
Open for teens on Wednesday and Thursday nights from 6-7:15 pm. No program on February 22,23 or 25
Wooster Wed. and Thurs. grades 9 –12 6:00-7:15pm
Wooster Wed. and Thurs, Men 7:30-9:00pm
Wooster Sat. grades 9 – 12 9:00-10:30am
Wooster Sat. Men 10:30am-12:00pm
The Recreation Department will be offering a variety of programs this winter and spring. The Complex includes a full size gym, game room and classrooms for programs and activities. Activities will include art and crafts programs, basketball leagues, open gyms, theatre workshops, fitness programs, dance classes and much more.
The Birdseye Complex Recreation Center will be open Monday-Friday from 3:15-6:00pm for grades 4-8 with a variety of activities scheduled in the game room, cafeteria and gym. The center will be open through June 1. All children must be registered prior to attending the center. Registration is ongoing throughout the school year. This is a free program offered by the Recreation Department.
Birdseye Monday-Friday grades 4-8 3:30-6:00pm
Birdseye Tuesday Men 7:45–9:15pm
Birdseye Wed. & Thurs. grades 9 – 12 7:30-9:00pm
Volunteer Information for Teens
The Stratford Recreation Department is always looking for youth interested in volunteering. We accept teens in or entering grades 8-12. Our department offers a variety of programs both during the school year and summer that can utilize youth volunteers. Opportunities can involve after school sports and learning programs, special events through out the year and summer camps. We offer our volunteers First Aid &CPR training and orientation programs. Our volunteers must fill out an application at the Department and go through a screening process to determine the best fit for the volunteer and the programs. There are several benefits for youth in volunteering such as personal growth, community awareness, developing leadership skills, new friends, positive activity and community service experience for jobs, college and financial aid.
Teen Volunteer Connections Nights will be held at the Birdseye Complex beginning at 6:00pm on March 27 and April 16 at Flood Middle School. Attend an informational meeting to find out more information and to see what opportunities are available.
STRATFORD SKATEBOARD PARK
Skateboard Park is located within Short Beach Park. The Park is open daily from 8:00am until dusk. Skaters may skate at their own risk. Skaters must wear helmets. Protective gear is strongly recommended. Park is closed during lessons and for parties when booked.
Skateboard Birthday Parties
These parties feature a combination of open skate and instructional time. Instructions will include proper stretching techniques, park awareness, skills and tricks that are based upon age and ability of party. A Semi Pro skater runs the parties. Helmets are required for participants and safety equipment is optional but encouraged. Fee is $90 for up to 19 kids. Held at Short Beach Skate Park/pavilion from 10:00am-11:45 am on Saturdays from April-November.
Skateboard Lessons 319180 Sections 50, 51
Skating lessons will be taught by a Semi-Pro skater at Short Beach Skate Park, for ages 7 and up. Proper stretching and warm-ups, park awareness, skateboard handling and safety will be covered. Participants need a skate board and helmet. Cost is $75 for 6 weeks on Mondays beginning April 23. Registration is from March 5-April 19.
Beginner Class will promote proper form and posture, stopping, curbs and tic taks. Class held from 4:00-5:00pm.
Intermediate/Advanced class will go into more advanced tricks, which may include kick turns, carve, grinds, drop ins, axle tails, ollies, stalls and tail tops. Class held from 5:00-6:00pm.
Skate Park Jam NEW 319180 Section 01
Our Donate to Skate fundraiser is a one day event held at Stratford Skate Park at Short Beach from 1:00pm-6:00pm on June 23 for a fee of $5 per participant. Help support Stratford Youth in trying to raise money for a new Skate Park. Contests such as bunny hops, manuals, ollies and more for skaters, bikers and scooters. There will be music and door prizes as well. Our Skate Park staff and instructors will be there to assist with any questions and give kids a chance to meet them and make suggestions about park. Tickets sold day of event at the Skate Park. Defiant Skateboard, Tony’s Bikes and some Local skateboard shops sponsor this event.
SPRING & SUMMER YOUTH PROGRAMS
“The right of children to play, to sing, to dance: the right of youth to sport for sports’ sake, the right of men and women to use leisure time in the pursuit of happiness in their own way, are basic to our American heritage” – Harry S. Truman
Junior Track League 112760 Section 01
Youth will learn the fundamentals of individual events and develop running and conditioning skills. Participants will have the opportunity to participate in local track meets. Our experienced coaches and volunteers can provide all levels with knowledge and skills they need to excel. This program is for boys and girls ages 8-15 and meets on Tuesday and Thursday nights from 6-8 pm at the Bunnell Track. Program will begin July 10 and end on August 16. Cost is $60. Registration is March 5 - June 29.
Girls’ Youth Softball Clinic 412190 Section 01
This instructional clinic will be offered for ages 5-15. The clinics meet on Mondays and Wednesdays at Longbrook Park from 6:00-7:30pm. The fee is $65, which includes a T-shirt. This clinic will run June 4 – July 18, no program on July 4. Registration begins March 5 – May 30.
Drills & Skills Summer Basketball League 112650 Section 01
This league will be a continuation of the Drills & Skills program we have during the year. It will be for youth in grades 1–8, who live in the Town of Stratford. The league will have Drills & Skills on Mondays and games on Wednesday at the Birdseye Complex Gymnasium from 6:00-8:00pm. The fee is $45 and includes a t-shirt. League will run June 18 – August 9. Registration for this program is March 5–June 8. If there are enough girls a separate league will be formed. Girls will practice on Tuesday and play games on Thursdays. One night is practice and one night is games. Grades K-4 practice from 6-7pm and Grades 5-8 practice from 7-8pm.
Spring Outdoor Tennis Clinics 212360 Section 01, 02, 23, 24, 25
These clinics will be on Tuesdays at Short Beach courts from May 8 – June 5. Registration is April 18-May 4. The schedule is as follows:
Ages 4 –5 3:30 – 4:00pm $59.
Ages 6 – 9 4:00 – 5:00pm $95.
Ages 10 – 13 5:00 – 6:00pm $95.
Adults Beginner 6:00 – 7:00pm $95.
Adults Intermediate 7:00 – 8:00pm $95.
Summer Tennis Camps
These camps will be held at Bunnell High School Courts and will run Monday-Thursdays from 9:00am-11:30am for ages 6-15. Courts will be divided by age and ability. The cost is $125 per session. Registration is March 5 – June 15.
Summer Tennis Clinics
These clinics will be held at Bunnell High School Courts and run Monday – Thursday from 11:30am-12:30am for ages 6-15. The cost is $79 per session. Registration is March 5 – June 15.
Summer Tennis Camp and Clinic Schedule:
Week 1: June 25-June 28
Week 2: July 9-12
Week 3: July 16-19
Week 4: July 23-26
New Quick Start Tennis Camp for ages 6-10 will be held the week of July 30-August 2. Cost for this camp only is $79. Registration is March 5-June 30.
SUMMER CAMPS
Registration will begin Monday March 5 from 8:00am-4:30pm at the Recreation Office at Short Beach Park for all Youth Spring & Summer programs except Swim Lessons. All start dates are subject to change due to school schedule.
Camps will be closed July 4
Outdoor Adventure Camp 113760 Section 01-06, 11-16, 21-26
Camp will take place June 25-June 29, July 9-July 13, July 16-20, July 23-27, July 30-August 3, August 6-10 and our newest week August 13-17. Each week will involve different outdoor adventures from 9:00am–4:00pm and will meet at Birdseye Complex. Camp is for ages 12-15. Some places will be visiting are Brownstone Discovery Park, CT Rock Gym, Mystic Aquarium, Lake Compounce, Catamount Aerial Adventure, Six Flags, Splashdown Beach and Longshore Kayaking. A tentative schedule can be picked up at the Recreation Office in February or found on our website. Extended hours will be at the Birdseye Complex from 7:00–9:00am and 4:00–5:00pm. Registration begins March 5 from 8:00am-4:30pm and will continue until full. Camp is limited to 15 campers per week. The fee is $230. Extended hours are available at $30 for am hours and $30 for pm hours per week, per child. A parents meeting will be held on Wednesday June 6 at 6:30 pm at the Birdseye Complex. No Camp the week of July 4.
Birdseye Adventure Camp 113460 Section 01-26
The Adventure camp program is offered for youth ages 7-11 at Birdseye Community Center. Three days each week the camp will travel with the Outdoor Adventure Camp to a different adventure. The camp will run June 25-August 17. The program will operate from 9:00am-4:00pm, with extended hours from 7:00-9:00am and from 4-6:00pm. The fee is $180 per week; second child is $90 and third child is $75. Extended hours are $30 for am and $30 for pm per week per child. Registration will begin on Monday March 5 from 8:00am-4:30pm through June 1 at the Recreation Office at Short Beach. No mail-in registration will be accepted. Space is limited. A parents’ meeting will be held on Wednesday, June 6 at 6:30pm at the Birdseye Complex.
Playgrounds 113871 Section 11-16
The six town playgrounds will be open Monday through Friday, from June 25 - August 9 from 8:00am-3:00pm. Playground counselors will be assigned to playgrounds to maintain a 1 to 15 ratio. Youth will have to sign in and out. Boys and girls, ages 5-15, may register at the Recreation Office at Short Beach Park from March 5 through June 30. There is no program on July 4. There is a registration fee that includes a T- shirt. Register for one of the following playgrounds:
Honeyspot House, Wilcoxson, Second Hill Lane, Franklin, Eli Whitney and Short Beach. Activities include: Arts and crafts, sports, Flood Pool trips, trips, games. There are charges for some activities at the playgrounds. There are additional fees for certain trips and crafts.
This is not a day camp program - the youth are free to sign themselves out at any time and leave the program. Parents informational meeting will take place June 6 at 7pm at the Birdseye Complex.
Playground Trips
The following trips are tentatively scheduled with registration beginning May 14 - June 15 or until filled:(Trip fees will be announced in February)
Wednesday June 27 Co Co Key Leaving from Birdseye at 9:00 am
Friday June 29 Flood Pool Leaving from Wilcox 9:15,Eli 9:30 and SHL 9:45am
Tuesday July 3 Dinosaur Place Leaving from Birdseye 9am
Thursday July 5 Lazer Planet Leaving from Birdseye at 8:45am
Friday July 6 Short Beach Leaving from Honey 9:30, Clover 9:45am
Tuesday July 10 Movies Leaving from Birdseye 9:15am
Thursday July 12 Club Getaway Leaving from Birdseye at 7:30am
Friday July 13 Flood Pool Leaving from Short 9:15,Honey 9:30,Clover 9:45am
Tuesday July 17 Maritime Aquarium Leaving from Birdseye at 9:00 am
Wednesday July 18 Tubing Leaving from Birdseye at 9:00 am
Friday July 20 Short Beach Leaving from Wilcox 9:15,Eli 9:30, SHL 9:45am
Wednesday July 25 Carnival TBA ALL PLAYGROUNDS
Friday July 27 Flood Pool Leaving from Wilcox 9:15,Eli 9:30 and SHL 9:45am
Tuesday July 31 Brownstone Water Park Leaving Birdseye at 8:00 am
Wednesday August 1 Quassy Leaving from Birdseye 9:30am
Friday August 3 Short Beach Leaving from Honey 9:30,Clover 9:45am
Monday August 6 Lake Compounce Leaving from Birdseye 9:45am
Tuesday August 7 Sports Center Leaving from Birdseye at 8:45am
Wednesday August 8 Phazer Ball Leaving from Birdseye 9:00am
Playground Carnival
The carnival will benefit a local charity. Rides, games, and special activities are at Boothe Memorial Park for a day of fun. The date is July 25 with a raindate of July 26. Admission is $1.
Summer Learning Camp 113560 Section 01
For learning disabled children, ages 7-12, currently enrolled in a Stratford School system resource room. This is a six week program held at Birdseye Complex from 9:00am-3:00pm. Registration will be at the Recreation Office at Short Beach beginning March 5 - June 15. A parents’ meeting will be held at the Birdseye Complex June 6 at 7:00pm. The camp runs from June 25-August 3. Fee is $100 for the summer. The Camp is limited to 20 children.
Sports Camp 113930 Section 01-14, 23
The camps are open to Boys and Girls grades 1-8 (based on grade entering). The following camps will be at Longbrook Park unless noted:
Soccer 6/25-6/29 01
Skate Board (Short Beach Skatepark) 6/25-6/29 34
Tennis (Johnson Courts) 7/02-7/06 15
No camp July 4th
Football (non-contact) 7/9 -7/13 02
Cheerleading 7/9 -7/13 00
Volleyball (Short Beach) 7/16-7/20 07
Lacrosse (Short Beach) 7/16-7/20 06
Softball 7/23-7/27 05
Baseball 7/23-7/27 04
Basketball (Short Beach) 7/30-8/3 08
Cheerleading 7/30-8/3 03
Track (Bunnell High) 8/6-8/10 09
Dance (Flood) 8/6-8/10 33
Golf (Short Beach) 8/13-8/17 10,11
Grades 1-4 from 9-10:30 and grades 5-8 from 10:30-12 for golf only
Skate Board(Short Beach) 8/13-8/17 35
Theatre Workshop (Eli Whitney) 6/25-6/29 12
Theatre Workshop (Longbrook) 7/9-7/13 13
Theatre Workshop (Johnson Auditorium) 7/16-7/20 14
Theatre Workshop (Longbrook) 7/23-7/27 23
Camps are one week from 9:00am-12:00pm daily. Fee is $45 for one camp, $40 per camp for 2 camps, and $35 per camp per child for 3 or more camps. Registration is March 7-June 15 or until filled. Discounts apply to child at first registration only. No sibling discounts for camps.
Tennis Sport Camps 212360 Section 51-56
There will be six one-week tennis camps. Campers will be taught all aspects of the game and have fun at the same time. These will run Monday through Thursday from 9:00-11:30am. at the Bunnell Tennis Courts. Fee is $125 per week; same session family discount is $115 per camper. Ages are from 5-9 and 10-13. Courts will be grouped by age and ability. Fridays are rain dates. Registration is March 5-June 15.
Week 1 June 25-June 28
Week 2 July 9- July 12
Week 3 July 16-July 19
Week 4 July 23-July 26
Week 5 July 30-August 2
Summer Karate Sports Camp 542580 Section 20
Have fun learning Karate Drills and Games at Flood School. The program is for ages 7-13. Fee is $100 from July 9-July 13. The program runs 9:00am-12:00pm. Registration is March 5 – June 29.
Multi – Sports Camp 113930 Section 15, 16, 19, 20, 24-27
The only summer camp truly dedicated to sports-minded youth ages 5- 14, Monday – Friday at Birdseye Complex, July 9-July 13 and July 30-August 3 at Flood. Campers will experience over 15 different sports from around the world with the US Sports Institute, promoting good sportsmanship, teamwork and most of all fun. Technical instruction and realistic game situations offered in Athletics, Bocce, Cricket, Football, Handball, Lacrosse, Netball, Rugby, Soccer, Volleyball, World Cup and more. T-shirts and certificates included. There is a full day and a half day program.
There are three options: Half day program from 9am-12:30pm is $149. Half-day program from 1-4pm is $129. Full day program from 9-4pm is $179. Registration begins March 5 until June 30.
Sport Squirts Mini – Sport Camp 113930 Section 21, 22
The US Sports Institute Sport Squirts program is a great way to introduce children aged 3 – 5 to a variety of sports such as Soccer, T- ball, Basketball and Hockey all taking place in a structured environment to ensure safe learning. Activities are designed to evoke a child’s imagination in which they can find Nemo, send Shrek into a spin or capture Jellyfish with Sponge Bob Square Pants. All activities promote hand-eyed coordination, movement and balance and most importantly Fun, Fun, Fun. The camp will take place at Birdseye Complex from 4:30-5:30pm. Session I is July 9– July 13 and Session II is July 30-August 3 at Flood. Fee for each session is $69. Registration is March 5 - June 30.
Preschool Sport Camps 113080 Sections 11 – 17
Preschoolers ages 3-5 will participate in the “Sport of the Week” doing drills, games, circle time with singing, craft, water play, parachute and snack time. Parents supply the snack. Camp will be Monday-Friday from 9-11:30am at Longbrook Park, unless noted. Rain location Flood School gym or Birdseye Gym.
Soccer camp June 25-June 29
Cheerleading/Tumbling July 9-13
Tennis/Volleyball July 16-20 at Short Beach Tennis Courts
T – Ball July 23-27
Dance July 30-August 3 - at Flood Middle School
Soccer August 6-10
T-Ball August 13-17 at Short Beach Softball Fields
Registration is March 5-June 30 or until filled. The fee is $47 for each week. Space is limited.
BIRTHDAY PARTIES
Stratford Recreation Department offers a variety of themed birthday parties. Reservations must be made at least 2 weeks in advance. Set up for parties are 15 minutes prior to the start of your party. Cafeteria time is 45 minutes for all parties. Prices below are effective for any party booked after January 2, 2012.
Zumba Parties NEW
These exciting and energetic parties are for ages 4-12. Children will participate in the Zumba dance/workout to music for 45 minutes then use the café for 45 minutes. Cost is $100 for up to 16 kids. An additional 10 kids may be added for $35 fee.
Karate Birthday Parties
The parties are held on Saturdays at Flood School for ages 4 & up. The cost is $75 for 1 ½ hr party for up to 25 children. Call the Recreation Office for reservations and to set up dates and times. A certified instructor offers program.
Flood Pool Parties
These are held on Saturdays during open swims from 2-3 pm or 3-4 pm. Cost is $30 plus $1.00 per child. If there is 20-35 youth an additional $35 is required. An adult must accompany children who cannot swim.
Gym Parties
We offer a fun and exciting way to celebrate your child’s birthday, with our sport themed parties. Let us organize your unique party with a choice of sport or activity. Some examples are soccer, kickball, basketball, dodge ball, volleyball, capture the flag and relay races. These private parties are held at the Birdseye Complex on Saturdays. Games and activities will be for 1 hour and 45 minutes are for the party portion in the cafeteria. There is no double booking. Fee for party is $95 for up to 19 children. An additional 10 children may be added for an additional fee of $35. Gym/Sport Parties are for children ages 5-12.
Dance Parties
Dance your way into an enjoyable party with our dance staff. Parties will include 45 minutes of dance and movement and 45 minutes worth of party room time. Wonderful for children ages 5-9. They may choose jazz, ballet or hip-hop. Cost is $100 for up to 12 children. 10 children may be added for an additional fee of $35.
Toddler Parties
Come play with us. Enjoy your toddler’s birthday and let them play in a big open space. Each open gym party features open gym time to explore, run, jump, climb and play with various balls. At the end, the children will have circle time with parachute and songs. Limit is 16 children. These private parties are held on Saturday afternoons at Birdseye Complex for ages 1-5. Activities will be held for the 45 minutes. Fee is $100. Additional 9 children may be added for $35. Parent participation is helpful.
Cheer/Tumbling Parties
Two, four, six, eight. This party will be really great. Children will participate in learning cheers and basic tumbling skills. Parties include 45 minutes of instruction and 45 minutes of party room time. Children will learn basic cheers, chants, tumbling and dance moves. Cost is $100 for up to 12 children. An additional 8 kids may be added for a $35 fee. Parties held at Birdseye Complex or Flood on Saturdays. Designed for children ages 4-7.
Miniature Train Museum Parties
These Birthday Parties are held at the Miniature Train Museum at Boothe Memorial Park. They are held only from March to the end of December. The group will tour the museum from 2-3 pm and the party portion will be held upstairs in the Dining Hall from 3-3:45 pm. The fee is $90. Parties are limited to 20 children.
Moonbounce Party
Bounce into fun at this fun-filled party theme. This private party features an inflatable moonbounce along with open gym time. The bouncing and activities will be held for 1 hour. Parties are held at the Birdseye Complex on Saturdays. Cost is $130 for up to 19 kids. Additional 10 children may be added for $35. Great for kids ages 2-11.
Skateboard Birthday Parties
These parties feature a combination of open skate and instructional time. Instructions will include proper stretching techniques, park awareness, skills and tricks are based upon age and ability of party. A Semi Pro skater runs the parties. Helmets are required for participants and safety equipment is optional but encouraged. Fee is $100 for up to 19 kids. Held at Short Beach Skate Park/Pavilion from 10:00am-11:45 am on Saturdays April-November. Parties are for children ages 7 and older.
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